Esperanza Premiere

In 2000, Wisconsin's labor unions joined with the progressive political and arts communities to create a new opera, "Esperanza". Inspired by and adapted from the screenplay for the film "Salt of the Earth", the opera celebrates working people and recounts a variety of struggles for equality, dignity and justice which working people face.

This major cultural initiative required immense resources, including financial assistance and volunteer help of all sorts. Wisconsin's labor unions, foundations, public arts organizations, local opera companies, musicians, and hundreds of generous individuals lent a hand in assuring that this spunky and tuneful opera was written and then performed.

Under Karlos Moser's leadership, "Esperanza" successfully premiered in Madison to noisy, appreciative audiences, and to considerable critical acclaim. Linking the power of opera with the just cause of working people led to a lively, provocative, and entertaining musical show.

The following links introduce you to the people who created the opera and performed in the opera's premiere.

Title Page
Premiere Cast
Musical Staff & Orchestra
Production Staff
Composer & Librettist